How Big Does Bed Bugs Get?
Bedbugs come in a variety of sizes. They grow from a few millimeters to about 0.18 inches. Most of these bugs are flat and have a reddish brown body. They are small and can hide in cracks and crevices, such as mattress seams. They can also be found near electrical outlets and folds in curtains.
When feeding, bedbugs inject tiny amounts of saliva into their host’s skin. Over time, the saliva may cause an allergic reaction or sensitivity. These bugs feed by probing your skin for ‘the perfect’ spot to bite. They typically feed for about five to ten minutes at a time. Their weight will increase about three times after their blood meal, so it’s important to remove them as quickly as possible.
Once they have fed, bed bugs can get big enough to be easily seen. Bedbugs change color, shape, and length during different life stages. They will be transparent at first, but will eventually change colors to appear more colorful. They will be able to grow into an adult in about six weeks.
The eggs of bedbugs are white and oval in shape. They are approximately one sixteenth of an inch long. The eggs are difficult to spot, and you will need a microscope to spot them. Once you notice their presence, you can begin treating the entire home with a suitable treatment. You can also consider buying a new mattress.